Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd – Hour 2: NBA Expectations
Release Date: June 27, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Introduction
In the second hour of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," hosts Colin Cowherd and Jason McIntyre delve deep into the current landscape of the NBA, exploring expectations for the Finals, draft strategies, and broader sports insights. Joined by guest Jeff Goodman, a basketball insider, the discussion spans from draft pick valuations to the rising prominence of stars in other leagues.
NBA Finals Expectations
The episode kicks off with an analysis of the NBA Finals, emphasizing the heightened interest and betting activities surrounding the championship series.
Jason McIntyre highlights the anticipation:
“The NBA Finals are here and this is your last chance to bet on the NBA until next season.” [02:14]
They discuss the partnership with DraftKings Sportsbook, encouraging listeners to engage with the Finals through strategic betting, offering new customers bonus bets to enhance their experience.
Draft Strategies: NBA vs. NFL
A significant portion of the discussion compares the draft systems of the NBA and NFL, particularly the value of second-round picks in the NBA versus sixth-round picks in the NFL.
Jason McIntyre draws parallels:
“I would say a six rounder in the NFL draft is comparable to a second rounder in the NBA draft.” [03:06]
Jeff Goodman elaborates on the depth and implications of draft picks:
“The basketball pool globally is much deeper now than it was 20 years ago.” [05:08]
They explore the challenges and potential of second-round NBA picks, citing Nikola Jokić as an unprecedented success story:
“Jokić was a second rounder. That is unheard of.” [05:08]
The conversation underscores the complexities teams face in drafting young talent, with the NBA’s faster pace requiring exceptional adaptability from new players.
49ers and Kyle Shanahan’s Tenure
Shifting focus to the NFL, the hosts discuss the San Francisco 49ers and the performance of head coach Kyle Shanahan.
Jason McIntyre critiques the drafting strategies:
“They took a kicker in the third round. Like what, what are you doing?” [10:XX]
Jeff Goodman comments on Shanahan’s influence:
“Shanahan's got too much say in personnel.” [11:19]
The debate centers on whether Shanahan’s significant involvement in player personnel decisions has adversely affected the 49ers’ draft outcomes, with comparisons made to other successful NFL coaches who balance coaching and management roles effectively.
Ace Bailey Draft Situation and Representation Issues
A poignant segment addresses the recent draft challenges faced by Ace Bailey, a promising basketball prospect whose situation has raised concerns about agent representation and guidance for young athletes.
Jason McIntyre introduces the issue:
“...the Ace Bailey situation where it's like where are the adults?” [30:09]
Jeff Goodman provides insight into Bailey’s predicament:
“Probable that he's getting bad advice.” [31:49]
The hosts emphasize the importance of proper representation and mentorship for young draftees, highlighting how poor guidance can derail promising careers. Goodman shares a personal anecdote about encountering unprofessional behavior from Bailey’s agent, underscoring the need for better regulatory oversight.
Baseball’s Increased Popularity with Ohtani and Judge
The podcast shifts to baseball, noting the surge in the sport’s popularity driven by stellar performances from Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani.
Jason McIntyre observes:
“...the World Series ratings were up 67%. That is insane for a number.” [18:45]
He attributes this spike to the charismatic presence and exceptional talent of both players, comparing their impact to iconic NBA figures and suggesting that their global appeal has revitalized interest in baseball.
Steph Curry and Longevity in the NBA
A discussion on Steph Curry’s remarkable career longevity highlights the evolving nature of the NBA, where star players are maintaining peak performance well into their late 30s.
Jeff Goodman shares insights inspired by Curry’s father:
“I think Steph could play well into his 40s before hanging him up.” [23:16]
Jason McIntyre contrasts Curry’s longevity with other athletes, emphasizing his finesse and shooting prowess as key factors enabling his extended career:
“Curry is more of a finesse player and a shooter.” [24:56]
This segment underscores the shift in training, playstyle, and athlete care that allow stars like Curry to remain dominant in a physically demanding sport.
Raptors Firing Masai Ujiri
The Raptors' recent decision to part ways with team president Masai Ujiri sparks discussion on team management and draft strategies.
Jason McIntyre questions the timing:
“They fire him after the draft.” [26:09]
Jeff Goodman speculates on motivations behind the move:
“They were swinging for the fences here with KD, with Giannis, struck out on both of them and said, you can't deliver us anymore.” [26:44]
The dialogue explores the impact of management decisions on team performance and future prospects, pondering whether the Raptors aimed for high-risk, high-reward strategies that ultimately did not pan out.
WNBA and Caitlin Clark's Scrutiny
The growth of the WNBA and the intense scrutiny faced by star player Caitlin Clark is another focal point, drawing parallels to male counterparts in major leagues.
Jason McIntyre addresses the increased media attention:
“Now this is the price of relevance.” [45:26]
Guest compares Clark to Steph Curry, highlighting her exceptional skills while acknowledging the harsh criticism that comes with elevated status:
“She reminds me of the female version of Steph Curry.” [47:51]
The conversation delves into the challenges female athletes face in gaining visibility while also dealing with disproportionate criticism, emphasizing the evolving landscape of women's sports.
NFL Defensive Player Focus
The hosts discuss the critical role of defensive players in the NFL, highlighting standout performers and their value to team success.
Jason McIntyre lists top defensive talents:
“If you talk about great interior defensive linemen, everybody says Reggie White, Aaron Donald.” [50:12]
Guest adds to the list with emerging stars:
“Kyle Hamilton, the safety of the Ravens... he's amazing.” [51:38]
The segment underscores the importance of building strong defensive units and the impact elite defensive players have on a team’s championship aspirations.
Closing Remarks
As the episode wraps up, the hosts reiterate key points discussed and encourage listeners to stay engaged with ongoing sports narratives.
Colin Cowherd concludes with a nod to the enduring themes of leadership and performance:
“Just like how true champs master both offense and defense, the BMW IX masters both ultimate performance and unbeatable space.” [54:36]
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Jason McIntyre: “The NBA Finals are here and this is your last chance to bet on the NBA until next season.” [02:14]
- Jeff Goodman: “The basketball pool globally is much deeper now than it was 20 years ago.” [05:08]
- Jason McIntyre: “I would say a six rounder in the NFL draft is comparable to a second rounder in the NBA draft.” [03:06]
- Jason McIntyre: “He reminds me of the female version of Steph Curry.” [47:51]
- Jeff Goodman: “Probable that he's getting bad advice.” [31:49]
- Jeff Goodman: “I think Shay Curry could play well into his 40s before hanging him up.” [23:16]
Conclusion
Hour 2 of "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" offers a comprehensive exploration of current NBA dynamics, draft strategies, and the intersection of emerging talents across major sports leagues. Through insightful discussions and expert commentary, listeners gain a nuanced understanding of the factors shaping the future of basketball and beyond.
Note: The summary excludes advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections to focus solely on the substantive discussions of the episode.